The Gun Pub in Hackney Announces Exciting Reopening This Month
In a major development for London's hospitality scene, The Gun, a beloved pub located on Well Street in Hackney, is set to reopen its doors later this month. The establishment, which closed down at the beginning of 2025, will officially welcome patrons back on February 23, marking a significant revival for this stalwart of east London's eating and drinking culture.
New Ownership and Culinary Vision
Under new ownership, The Gun is poised to offer a refreshed experience with a notable culinary twist. Reports from Hot Dinners indicate that Kotaro Ogawa, the mastermind behind Mayfair's prestigious fine dining Japanese steakhouse Aragawa, is spearheading the relaunch. This involvement suggests that the pub will continue its tradition of serving serious food, building on its history of hosting kitchen residencies such as the renowned Ling Ling's and Rake, the latter of which has since moved to The Gun's former sister pub, The Compton Arms.
The pub's new slogan, 'Come for the Guinness. Stay for the wagyu,' hints at a blend of classic pub fare with high-end Japanese influences, potentially elevating the dining experience for locals and visitors alike.
Historical Context and Past Challenges
The Gun has a rich history that dates back to its opening in June 2014 by Nick Stephens, Hanna Sinclair-Stephens, and Oliver Dixon. They revitalized the building by polishing its original Victorian features, creating a cozy and intimate space with a capacity of 90. Over the years, the pub gained fame not only for its food but also as a rave venue, hosting DJs like Daniel Avery and Marie Davidson, though this aspect might be a thing of the past under the new management.
In March 2025, The Gun was forced to close due to the increasing costs of running a hospitality business in the challenging financial climate. This closure followed a previous near-miss in 2020 during the pandemic, when a crowdfunding campaign raised over £30,000 in a single day to save the venue from permanent shutdown. The team behind The Gun, who also operate The Compton Arms in Islington, have demonstrated resilience in keeping the pub's legacy alive.
Implications for the Local Community
The reopening of The Gun is expected to have a positive impact on Hackney's local economy and social scene. As a key player in the area's dining and nightlife, its return could attract both longtime fans and new customers eager to experience the revamped offerings. The blend of traditional pub elements with gourmet touches from Kotaro Ogawa may set a new standard for pubs in London, combining accessibility with culinary excellence.
This development underscores the ongoing evolution of London's pub culture, where historic venues adapt to modern demands while preserving their unique character. The Gun's comeback serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of community-focused establishments in the face of economic pressures.
